Growing Blueberries for Home Use
Highbush blueberries are winter hardy
shrubs adapted to Missouri. Lowbush and rabbiteye blueberries are
not adapted here. Blueberries are more challenging to establish
because they
require an acid soil and precise water management.
Blueberries need a soil pH in the range of
pHsalt 4.3-4.9 Missouri Soil Testing Service to grow well.
Blueberries are also sensitive to
too much water and too little water. They must have perfect water
drainage and must be mulched and watered regularly. Plants do best
on a sandy loam soil that is high in organic matter. If planting on
a heavier soil, berm or mound up the soil before planting to improve water
drainage.
Once established,
blueberries are relatively easy to care for. Berries are harvested in
June, July and early August. Highbush blueberries yield between 4 to 8
quarts per plant. Birds may be a problem
during harvest. Netting the plants to deter birds may be required.
